U.S. patent number 7,455,365 [Application Number 10/809,279] was granted by the patent office on 2008-11-25 for seating structure having flexible support surface.
This patent grant is currently assigned to Herman Miller, Inc.. Invention is credited to John Fredric Aldrich, Jerome Carmel Caruso, Steven Jerome Caruso, Thomas William Granzow, Andrew Keith Hector, Dean Thomas Miller, Richard Thomas Peek.
United States Patent |
7,455,365 |
Caruso , et al. |
November 25, 2008 |
**Please see images for:
( Certificate of Correction ) ** |
Seating structure having flexible support surface
Abstract
A seating structure includes a plurality of boss structures
arranged in a pattern and a plurality of web structures joining
adjacent boss structures within the pattern. At least some of the
web structures are non-planar and at least some adjacent web
structures are spaced apart such that they define openings
therebetween. In another aspect, the seating structure includes a
plurality of boss structures arranged in a pattern and defining a
support surface and a plurality of web structures joining adjacent
boss structures within the pattern. At least some adjacent web
structures are spaced apart and shaped such that they define
substantially non-circular openings therebetween when viewed in a
direction substantially perpendicular to the support surface. A
reinforced frame is also provided.
Inventors: |
Caruso; Jerome Carmel (Lake
Forest, IL), Caruso; Steven Jerome (Antioch, IL),
Aldrich; John Fredric (Grandville, MI), Hector; Andrew
Keith (Grandville, MI), Granzow; Thomas William
(Planwell, MI), Miller; Dean Thomas (Wyoming, MI), Peek;
Richard Thomas (Caledonia, MI) |
Assignee: |
Herman Miller, Inc. (Zeeland,
MI)
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Family
ID: |
32823141 |
Appl.
No.: |
10/809,279 |
Filed: |
March 25, 2004 |
Prior Publication Data
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Document
Identifier |
Publication Date |
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US 20050001461 A1 |
Jan 6, 2005 |
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Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
Issue Date |
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09897153 |
Jun 29, 2001 |
6726285 |
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10809279 |
Mar 25, 2004 |
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PCT/US02/00024 |
Jan 3, 2002 |
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60215257 |
Jul 3, 2000 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
297/452.46;
297/452.21; 297/452.15 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47C
5/12 (20130101); A47C 7/28 (20130101); A47C
1/03277 (20130101); A47C 7/02 (20130101); A47C
1/03 (20130101); A47C 7/16 (20130101); A47C
7/46 (20130101); A47C 7/285 (20130101); A47C
3/12 (20130101) |
Current International
Class: |
A47C
7/02 (20060101) |
Field of
Search: |
;297/452.21,452.23,452.24,452.32,452.37,452.42,452.43,452.46,452.52
;428/98,131,174,172 ;5/653,652.1 |
References Cited
[Referenced By]
U.S. Patent Documents
Foreign Patent Documents
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0 021 191 |
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Jun 1980 |
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EP |
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0 021 191 |
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Jun 1980 |
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EP |
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2088206 |
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Jun 1982 |
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GB |
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2225229 |
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May 1990 |
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GB |
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WO 00/22961 |
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Apr 2000 |
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WO |
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WO 115572 |
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Mar 2001 |
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WO |
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Other References
Digital images of "Y psilon" Chair, date unknown. cited by other
.
Vitra "Y psilon" brochure, date unknown. cited by other .
International Search Report, International Application
PCT/US02/00024, May 29, 2002. cited by other .
"Aeron Chair", Herman Miller, 1995 (4 pages). cited by other .
"IDEA" advertisement, Intes ISA, High Point NC, date unknown (1
page). cited by other .
International Preliminary Examination Report from PCT/US2002/00024,
Apr. 12, 2005 (4 pages). cited by other .
"New! Bungie High Back Chair" advertisement, (source and date
unknown). cited by other .
Pearlman, C., "Made to Measure" I.D., Sep.-Oct. 1994 (8 pages).
cited by other .
Zurowski, T., "Designers Rate . . . Herman Miller's Aeron Chair",
Interiors, Jul. 1995 (1 page). cited by other.
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Primary Examiner: McPartlin; Sarah B
Attorney, Agent or Firm: Brinks Hofer Gilson & Lione
Parent Case Text
This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 09/897,153, filed Jun. 29, 2001, now U.S. Pat.
No. 6,726,285 which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional
Application No. 60/215,257, filed Jul. 3, 2000, the entire
disclosures of which are hereby incorporated herein by reference.
This application also is a continuation-in-part of PCT Application
PCT/US02/00024, filed Jan. 3, 2002, the entire disclosure of which
is hereby incorporated herein by reference.
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A seating structure comprising: a plurality of boss structures
arranged in a pattern, wherein each of said boss structures has a
body-facing surface, wherein said body-facing surface of at least
one of said plurality of boss structures is a different size and
shape than said body-facing surface of at least another of said
plurality of boss structures; a plurality of web structures joining
adjacent boss structures within said pattern, wherein at least some
of said web structures are non-planar, said non-planar web
structures extending away from said body-facing surface of said
adjacent boss structures and forming a hinge structure between
adjacent boss structures, with said body-facing surface being more
proximal to an occupant than said web structures when the occupant
is supported by the seat structure; and wherein at least some
adjacent web structures defining said plurality of web structures
are spaced apart such that said spaced apart adjacent web
structures define openings therebetween.
2. The seating structure of claim 1 wherein said plurality of boss
structures and said plurality of web structures define at least in
part a seat having a front portion adapted to support the thighs of
a user and a rear portion adapted to support the buttock of the
user, wherein at least some of said plurality of boss structures
defining said rear portion have a greater surface area than at
least some of said plurality of said boss structures defining said
front portion.
3. The seating structure of claim 1 wherein said plurality of boss
structures and said plurality of web structures define at least in
part one of a seat and back.
4. The seating structure of claim 1 wherein said web structures are
thinner in section than said boss structures.
5. The seating structure of claim 1 wherein said boss structures
comprise a first portion defining a body-facing support surface and
at least one rib extending from said first portion in a direction
away from support surface.
6. The seating structure of claim 1 wherein at least some of said
boss structures are connected to a frame.
7. The seating structure of claim 1 wherein at least some of said
web structures are connected to a frame.
8. The seating structure of claim 1 wherein at least some of said
web structures are V-shaped.
9. The seating structure of claim 1 wherein said web structures are
spaced apart from said body-facing surface, with said body-facing
surface being more proximal to an occupant than said web structures
when the occupant is supported by the seating structure.
10. The seating structure of claim 1 further comprising a covering
disposed over at least some of said plurality of boss structures
and said plurality of web structures.
11. A seating structure comprising: a plurality of boss structures
arranged in a pattern, wherein each of said boss structures has a
body-facing surface, wherein at least some of said boss structures
are elongated and have a longitudinal extent and a lateral extent,
wherein said longitudinal extent of at least some of said boss
structures is greater than said lateral extent of said at least
some of said boss structures; a plurality of web structures joining
adjacent boss structures within said pattern, wherein at least some
of said web structures are non-planar, said non-planar web
structures extending away from said body-facing surface of said
adjacent boss structures and forming a hinge structure between
adjacent boss structures, with said body-facing surface being more
proximal to an occupant than said web structures when the occupant
is supported by the seat structure; and wherein at least some
adjacent web structures defining said plurality of web structures
are spaced apart such that said spaced apart adjacent web
structures define openings therebetween.
12. The seating structure of claim 11 wherein said body-facing
surfaces of at least some of said plurality of boss structures are
substantially obround.
13. The seating structure of claim 11 wherein said body-facing
surfaces of at least some of said plurality of boss structures are
substantially rectangular.
14. The seating structure of claim 13 wherein at least some of said
substantially rectangular boss structures are substantially
square.
15. A seating structure comprising: a plurality of boss structures
arranged in a pattern, wherein each of said boss structures has a
body-facing surface; a plurality of web structures joining adjacent
boss structures within said pattern, wherein at least some of said
web structures are non-planar, said non-planar web structures
extending away from said body-facing surface of said adjacent boss
structures and forming a hinge structure between adjacent boss
structures, with said body-facing surface being more proximal to an
occupant than said web structures when the occupant is supported by
the seat structure, and wherein each of said plurality of web
structures have a width, wherein said width of at least some of
said web structures varies along a length of said web structure;
and wherein at least some adjacent web structures defining said
plurality of web structures are spaced apart such that said spaced
apart adjacent web structures define openings therebetween.
16. The seating structure of claim 15 wherein said width of said at
least some of said web structures is greatest in a middle portion
of said length of said web structure.
17. A seating structure comprising: a plurality of boss structures
arranged in a pattern; a plurality of web structures joining
adjacent boss structures within said pattern, wherein at least some
of said web structures are non-planar and wherein each of said
plurality of web structures have a width, wherein said width of at
least some of said web structures varies along a length of said web
structure; and wherein at least some adjacent web structures
defining said plurality of web structures are spaced apart such
that said spaced apart adjacent web structures define openings
therebetween, and wherein said at least some of said web structures
each have a hinge apex, wherein said width of said web structure is
greatest at said hinge apex.
18. A seating structure comprising: a plurality of boss structures
arranged in a pattern and defining a support surface; a plurality
of web structures joining adjacent boss structures within said
pattern; and wherein at least some adjacent web structures defining
said plurality of web structures are spaced apart and shaped such
that said spaced apart adjacent web structures define substantially
X-shaped openings therebetween when viewed in a direction
substantially perpendicular to said support surface, and wherein
said plurality of boss structure comprises at least a first boss
structure have a first lateral length and a first longitudinal
length, wherein at least a second boss structure has a second
lateral length and a second longitudinal length, wherein said first
and second lateral lengths are different and said first and second
longitudinal lengths are different.
19. The seating structure of claim 18 wherein said first lateral
length and said second longitudinal length are substantially the
same and wherein said second laterally length and said first
longitudinal length are substantially the same.
20. The seating structure of claim 19 wherein said plurality of
boss structures comprises at least one third boss structure having
a third longitudinal length substantially equal to said first
lateral length and said second longitudinal length, and a third
lateral length substantially equal to said second lateral length
and said first longitudinal length.
Description
FIELD OF INVENTION
The present invention relates to chairs and seating normally
associated with but not limited to residential or commercial office
work. These chairs employ a number of structures and methods that
enhance the user's comfort and promote ergonomically healthy
sitting. These methods include various forms of padding and/or
flexing of the seat and back as well as separate mechanical
controls that control the overall movement of the seat and
back.
BACKGROUND
Various approaches to making a chair seat and/or back form fitting
for various users are known in the industries of seating
manufacture. These approaches range from the rather traditional use
of contouring synthetic foam, to seat/back shells that have a
degree of flex. There have also been approaches that use a frame
that has a membrane or sling stretched or supported across or
within a frame. Problems can arise from each of these
approaches.
For example, under normal manufacturing conditions, it can be
difficult to vary the amount of firmness and corresponding support
in different areas of a foam padded cushion. Additionally, foam can
lead to excessive heat-build-up between the seating surface and the
occupant. One of the problems with foam is the forming and molding
process. Current manufacturing technology makes it a relatively
inefficient process compared with the manufacture of the other
components that make up a chair or seating surface. Often, the
forming/molding of a contoured seating surface can be slow, thereby
requiring the manufacturer to make several molds (typically hand
filled) in order to maintain an efficient level of production.
Another problem inherent to the use of foam is that in order to
achieve a finished look, the cushions typically must be covered,
e.g. upholstered. When a manufacturer upholsters a cushion, a
number of issues may arise. For example, the formed or molded foam
may have curves, many of which can be compound-curves, which leads
a manufacturer to use glue or other adhesives to make the fabric
conform to the contours. This laminating technique often makes the
foams surface firmer than it was when it was originally
molded/formed because the glue/adhesive and the fabric are now part
of the foam structure. Additionally, the amount of change in
firmness can vary from fabric to fabric which results in an
unpredictability of the firmness of a cushion from one manufactured
unit to the next.
Alternatively, if a slipcover is used, it must be sized properly.
Such sizing can be difficult as a result of the differing
mechanical properties found from one fabric to another. The most
important properties of a fabric when upholstering a contoured
surface are its thickness and its rate of stretch. Thickness
variations can make one fabric upholster smooth around radii or
contours, while a thicker one will wrinkle in the same area.
Variations in the amount of stretch can lead to other problems.
Therefore, a proper size slipcover in one type of fabric, with its
stretch characteristics, may be the wrong size in another type or
style of fabric. Often a manufacturer will "wrap" a piece of fabric
around a cushion and then staple the fabric to the
underside/backside of the cushion. This approach also suffers from
the aforementioned problems associated with using variable fabrics.
Additionally, the manufacturer must now cover the staples and the
area of the cushion not covered by fabric in order to achieve a
finished look. This leads to an additional manufacturing step or
molding etc. that often also has to be upholstered.
The other reality of cushion upholstery, regardless of the
techniques used, is that whether it is done in a small shop or in a
production situation, it can be the most labor-intensive aspect of
chair/seating construction.
In the case of incorporating flex into the shells of a chair, it
can be difficult to achieve the proper amount of flex in the right
areas to give correct ergonomic comfort for a wide range of
individuals. In the case of a membrane approach, the curves
imparted on the membrane by the frame are often simple in nature
(non-compound) and thus cannot provide the proper contouring
necessary for ergonomic comfort. Also, this approach can lead to
"hammocking," where the areas adjacent a pressed area have the
tendency of folding inward, squeezing the occupant, and not
yielding the proper ergonomic curvatures. An additional problem
with membrane chairs is that the tension of the membrane may not be
appropriate for all ranges of users.
To solve some of these problems, manufacturers have produced
"sized" (i.e. small, medium and large) chairs that effectively
narrow the amount of contouring-compromise that the designer must
normally exercise. This approach, however, may require the
manufacturer to tool three independent products instead of one, and
the manufacturers, wholesalers, and retailers having to stock (in
this example) three times the quantity of product. Additionally,
the purchaser ends up with a chair that at some point in the future
may be the wrong size for a different user.
In some seating structures, the frame members, such as a backrest
support, may be made from metal to accommodate the large loads
applied thereto by the user. Metal, however, can be expensive to
purchase as a raw material, as well as to form into a final
product. Moreover, the resultant chair is relatively heavy, leading
to increased shipping costs and decreased portability. In some
cases, various components have been made of plastic or composite
materials, e.g., fiberglass. These components, however, can be
susceptible to wear and often cannot carry the necessary loads, for
example in bearing.
BRIEF SUMMARY
In one aspect, the present invention relates to an improved method
of constructing seating structures and surfaces, which provides
greater comfort through superior surface adjustment for a variety
of users. In one embodiment, the seating surface construction is
comprised of a plurality of support sections (bosses/platforms) and
of a plurality of web connectors interconnecting the support
sections. In one embodiment, the support sections, or
bosses/platforms, are more rigid than their corresponding web
connectors. A variety of methods are disclosed for making the
bosses/platforms with a greater degree of rigidity than the web
connectors.
One exemplary method disclosed herein includes making the thickness
of the bosses/platforms different than the thickness of the web
connectors. Another exemplary method includes providing the
bosses/platforms with stiffening geometry that provides a greater
degree of rigidity than the web connectors. Such stiffening means
can include in one embodiment the addition of one or more returns
or ribs. Another exemplary solution is to make the bosses/platforms
out of a different material than the web connectors. Yet another
solution includes constructing the webs with a geometry that acts
as a hinge. Yet another embodiment includes providing a given
geometry and material that can exhibit stretch in addition to
flexure.
In one embodiment, a seating structure includes a plurality of boss
structures arranged in a pattern and a plurality of web structures
joining adjacent boss structures within the pattern. At least some
of the web structures are non-planar. At least some adjacent web
structures are spaced apart such that they define openings
therebetween. In various embodiments, the boss structures can be
the same size and/or shape, or different sizes and/or shapes.
In another aspect, a seating structure includes a support structure
having a first component made of a first material. The first
component has opposite side portions defining a cavity
therebetween. A plate-like second component made of a second
material is disposed in the cavity and is secured to the first
component. The second component defines at least one engagement
location. The second material is stronger than the first material.
A third component engages the second component at the engagement
location.
In yet another aspect, a seating structure includes a plurality of
boss structures arranged in a pattern and defining a support
surface and a plurality of web structures joining adjacent boss
structures within the pattern. At least some adjacent web
structures are spaced apart and shaped such that they define
substantially non-circular openings therebetween when viewed in a
direction substantially perpendicular to the support surface. In
various exemplary embodiments, the openings are X-shaped and
V-shaped.
In various embodiments, the structure provides increased airflow to
contact areas of the occupant's body, relative to foam for example.
In addition, the seating surface can be made more efficiently and
economically relative to foam and other types of seating surfaces.
Moreover, the structure can be formed to provide different flexure
characteristics in different areas of the seating structure.
The support member with its different materials also provides
advantages. In particular, the plate-like structure can be provided
in areas requiring high strength, with the remainder of the
structure being made from a lighter and/or less expensive
material.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 is top view of a seating structure without a seat
support.
FIG. 2 is a side elevation of the seating structure shown in FIG.
1.
FIG. 3 is a front view of one embodiment of a back support.
FIG. 4 is a front view of one embodiment of a seat support.
FIG. 5 is a top view of the back support and seat support shown in
FIGS. 3 and 4.
FIG. 6 is a side view of the back support shown in FIG. 3.
FIG. 7 is a top view of a frame structure configured to support the
back support and seat support shown in FIGS. 3-6.
FIG. 8 is a front view of frame structure configured to support the
back support and seat support shown in FIGS. 3-6.
FIG. 9 is a side view of frame structure configured to support the
back support and seat support shown in FIGS. 3-6.
FIG. 10 is a top view of a seating structure.
FIG. 11 is a front view of the seating structure shown in FIG.
10.
FIG. 12 is a side view of the seating structure shown in FIG.
10.
FIG. 13 is a perspective partial view of a seating structure
configured with some web structures having a V-shaped cross-section
and some web structures having a W-shaped cross-section.
FIG. 14 partial view of a seating support structure configured with
web structures having a V-shaped cross-section.
FIG. 15 is a partial plan view of a support structure.
FIG. 16 is a partial perspective view of one embodiment of a
support structure.
FIG. 17 is an enlarged partial perspective view of another
embodiment of a support structure.
FIG. 18 is a partial perspective view of one embodiment of a
support structure.
FIG. 19 is a partial perspective view of one embodiment of a
support structure.
FIG. 20 is a side sectional view taken along cutting line 20-20 of
FIG. 19.
FIG. 21 is a side sectional view taken along cutting line 21-21 of
FIG. 19.
FIG. 22 is a front perspective view of one embodiment of a chair
with portions of the seat and back cut away.
FIG. 23 is a rear perspective view of the chair shown in FIG.
22.
FIG. 24 is a side view of the chair shown in FIG. 22.
FIG. 25 is a perspective view of a tilt control assembly.
FIG. 26 is an exploded perspective view of a seat support
assembly.
FIG. 27 is an exploded perspective view of a back support frame
assembly.
FIG. 28 is a perspective view of the back support frame assembly
shown in FIG. 27.
FIG. 29 is an enlarged, partial perspective view of three links of
a four-bar linkage assembly.
FIG. 30 is a partial front view of one embodiment of a back support
member.
FIG. 31 is a partial top view of one embodiment of a seat support
member.
FIG. 32 is an enlarged perspective view of the back support member
taken along line 32 in FIG. 30.
FIG. 33 is a front view of another embodiment of a back support
member.
FIG. 34 is a top view of another embodiment of a seat support
member.
FIG. 35 is a top, perspective view of a portion of another
embodiment of a support member.
FIG. 36 is a bottom, perspective view of the support member shown
in FIG. 35.
FIG. 37 is a cross-sectional view of the support member taken along
line 37-37 of FIG. 35.
FIG. 38 is a front perspective view of one embodiment of a
chair.
FIG. 39 is a rear perspective view of the embodiment shown in FIG.
38.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PRESENTLY PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
While the invention will be described in connection with one or
more preferred embodiments, it will be understood that we do not
intend to limit the invention to those embodiments. On the
contrary, we intend to cover all alternatives, modifications and
equivalents within the spirit and scope of the invention.
Referring to FIGS. 22-29, 38 and 39, various embodiments of a
seating structure, configured as a chair, are shown. It should be
understood that the term "seating structure" includes any structure
intended to support the body of a user, whether standing, sitting
or lying, and includes without limitation chairs, sofas, benches,
automotive seats, stools, suspended structures, etc.
The chair 26 includes a back 28 having a pair of support arms 30
pivotally connected to a control housing 40 at a first pivot axis
32 and pivotally connected to opposite sides of a seat 44 at a
second pivot axis 34. The seat 44 is pivotally connected to a link
42 at a third pivot axis 36 positioned forwardly of said first and
second pivot axes 32, 34. The link 42 is pivotally connected to the
control housing 40 at a fourth pivot axis 38 positioned below the
third pivot axis 36 and forwardly of the first and second pivot
axes 32, 34. The link 42 extends laterally across the housing and
includes a pair of lower lugs 46 pivotally secured to opposite
sides of the control housing 40 and a pair of upper lugs 48
pivotally secured to opposite sides of the seat 44. The link 42 is
preferably made of plastic, such as glass-filled (e.g., 33%)
polypropylene. The control housing 40, back support arms 30, seat
44 and link 42 form a four-bar linkage that provides for
synchronous tilting of the seat and back.
An adjustable support column 50 has an upper end connected to the
control housing and a lower end connected to a base 52. The base
includes a plurality of support arms terminating in casters 54. The
casters can be configured as conventional two-wheel casters 56, or
as a one-wheeled caster 54, disclosed for example in U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 10/613,526, filed Jul. 3, 2003, the entire
disclosure of which is hereby incorporated herein by reference.
Referring to FIG. 26, the seat includes a pair of seat links 58
each having opposite ends pivotally connected respectively to the
back support arm 30 and link 42 at the second and third pivot axes
34, 36. The seat link 58 includes a rack 60 formed along a bottom
edge thereof. The seat further includes a frame 64 slidably
supported on the seat links. For example, the frame can be slidably
connected to an upper flange of the seat link, or it can be
slidably captured thereon with various fasteners, which can be
permanent or removable, for example by a snap-fit or with screws.
The frame 64 is preferably made of plastic, such as glass-filled
(e.g., 20%) polypropylene. It should be understood that the various
glass-filled materials disclosed herein can have various
percentages of fill, or can be unfilled. Of course, other plastic
materials or metal can also be used. The seat links 58 are
preferably made of metal, such as steel. A lever 62 or latch is
pivotally secured to the seat frame 64 and is releasable engageable
with the rack 60 to secure the seat frame at a desired location
relative thereto.
A support member 6, made of various web 18 and boss structures 20,
as described below, is secured to the frame 64. In one embodiment,
the support member 6 includes a peripheral ring portion 66, or
frame, that is secured to the frame 64. In one embodiment, a
cushion is disposed on top of the support member and is covered
with a fabric. In another embodiment, the support member is
directly exposed to the user without any covering disposed
thereover. In yet another embodiment, a thin flexible covering,
such as a fabric, is disposed over the support member without a
cushion. In other embodiments, a membrane can be secured to the
frame, as disclosed for example in U.S. patent application Ser. No.
10/738,641, filed Dec. 17, 2003, and U.S. Pat. No. 6,386,634, the
entire disclosures of which are hereby incorporated herein by
reference.
The tilt control assembly, shown in FIGS. 24 and 25, includes a
pair of leaf springs 68 (shown in an unloaded position) that bias
the seat and back to an upright position. A moveable fulcrum member
70 can be translated to adjust the amount of biasing force exerted
by the springs 68.
In one embodiment, shown in FIGS. 22-25, the back 28 includes a
support bracket 72 defining the support arms 30. The rear end of
the springs 68 engage a bottom surface, which can be downwardly
raised, of the support bracket. The rear ends of the spring
slidably engage the bottom surface of the support bracket as the
support bracket is rotated relative to the housing. A back frame 74
includes a pair of opposite uprights 76 each having a forwardly
extending portion 80, secured to one side of the support bracket
72, and an upwardly extending section 80. A cross-member 78 is
secured to and extends between the upper ends of the upwardly
extending portions. In other embodiments, the cross member is
omitted.
In an alternative embodiment, shown in FIGS. 27 and 28, the
forwardly extending portions 80 of the uprights have end portions
84 that are configured as lugs and are pivotally mounted to the
control housing at the first pivot axis 32.
In either embodiment, and with reference to FIGS. 22 and 28, the
uprights 76 include a first component 86, preferably made of a
first material, such as a plastic, wood, fiberglass, polymer,
metal, etc., including nylon and polypropylene (unfilled and
glass-filled (e.g., 20%)). The first component 86 includes a groove
90, or other cavity, formed therein, preferably along a front face
92, between opposite side portions 94 of the first component
defining the groove. A second component 88 is inserted in the
cavity 90. Preferably, the second component 88 is made of a second
material different from the first material, for example and without
limitation a metal such as steel, although it should be understood
that the second material can be a composite, plastic, wood, or any
other material. In one embodiment, the second component 88 is
configured as a metal insert, preferably formed from a sheet or
plate-like member. In this way, the metal insert can be easily
manufactured by stamping or cutting, yet still provide increased
bending strength due to its vertical orientation. The metal insert
88 provides various engagement locations 96, 98 or surfaces for
joining the back to other components. At the same time, the metal
insert 88 is substantially hidden from view, such that the back
frame 74 is provided with a pleasing aesthetic appearance. It
should be understood that the composite frame structure, otherwise
referred to as a laminated beam structure, can be incorporated into
other seating structure components, including without limitation
the seat and armrests.
In one embodiment, shown in FIGS. 24 and 27, the metal insert
includes a flange 100 that extends upwardly and provides an
engagement location 96 formed as a pivot joint for the seat
defining the second pivot axis. The flange 100 can be bent as
desired. In another embodiment, shown in FIG. 27, the metal insert
includes a second engagement location, formed as a rack 98 formed
on a front edge thereof, which is exposed to the front of the frame
member. The back support or armrests can be configured with a latch
device that releasably engages the rack to secure one or both of
those components in a desired position, as shown for example in
FIG. 2. Various back and arm configurations are disclosed in U.S.
Provisional Application No. 60/381,769 filed May 20, 2002 and PCT
Application PCT/US03/16034, filed May 20, 2003, the entire
disclosures of which are hereby incorporated herein by
reference.
Referring to FIGS. 22-24, a lumbar support 102 is secured to a
front of the vertical frame members. The lumbar support is
vertically adjustable along the frame members. A pair of end
supports 104 are trapped between the frame and a strap 108 secured
to the frame. The end supports are vertically moveable between the
frame and strap to a plurality of positions. The strap includes a
plurality of openings 106, allowing a latch device to secure the
end supports to the strap at one of the openings. The latch device
can include a simple detent, or a moveable latch. The lumbar
support further includes a belt 110 extending between the end
supports the belt can be tightened or loosened by a pair of
adjustment members 112.
In another embodiment, shown in FIG. 39, the lumbar includes a
cross member 136 secured to the uprights and a body support member
134 disposed between the cross member and the rear surface of the
back seating surface 8. An adjustment member 138, including for
example a knob 140 and screw, can be used to adjust the fore/aft
position of the support member 134 relative to the cross member 136
and seating surface 8.
Referring to FIG. 10, a top view of one embodiment of a seating
support structure shows a seat-pan seating structure 6 or surface
and its support frame 2 and a back support structure 8 and its
support frame 4 can be seen. Referring to FIGS. 3-6, the shells or
pans 6, 8, can be seen separate from the frames 2, 4, and the
frames can be seen separate from the seating surface shells or pans
in FIGS. 1, 2, 7, 8, and 9. Also, it should be noted that a
separate peripheral support frame is not a necessity of the
invention, for the shells 6, 8 could be self-supporting with an
integral structure, or surrounding, integral frame 66 as shown for
example in FIGS. 30-32. Additionally for clarification, a seat-pan,
or back-pan seating surface refers to a structure which may be the
primary support surface, as in a plastic or wood chair, or a
structure which may accept foam and upholstery and thus not be the
primary support surface as can be commonly found in many articles
of furniture. Of course, the seat pan or back pan seating surface
can also be covered with only a thin membrane, for example and
without limitation fabric, an elastomeric material, leather, rubber
etc. Often these pan structures are also referred to as seating
shells. All of these and any other terms used to describe a similar
structure are considered to be equivalents and should be viewed as
such.
Now referring to FIGS. 3 and 4 it can be seen that the seating
surface 6, 8 is comprised of a plurality of webs 18, thicker
sections configured as bosses/platforms 20, and openings 22. It is
through the various geometric combinations of these three basic
elements that improved seating comfort is achieved. This
configuration or matrix is referred to as being "cellular" in
nature, for it is a matrix of individual, independently acting cell
structures. In one embodiment, all three of these structures are
formed economically from one type of material and process such as
plastic and molding. Any of the common molding methods known could
be used including, but not limited to, injection, blow, or
roto-molding. Additionally, through the use of advanced plastic
injection molding techniques known to those in the industry as
"two-shot" injection molding and "co-injection" molding, these
elements may be selectively made from two or more types of
materials to further control the overall engineering attributes of
the structure. Additionally, this structure could be realized
through other manufacturing techniques such as lamination,
stamping, punching etc.
Referring to FIG. 16, an enlarged view of a portion of the matrix
shows that the webs 18 function as thinner or more flexible
interconnecting elements to the thicker or more rigid
bosses/platform sections 20. It is through these webs that flexure
occurs, allowing movement of one thicker or more rigid section
relative another thicker section. Of course, it should be
understood that the web structures and boss structures can have the
same thickness. Depending upon the final geometry selected this
movement may have several degrees of freedom.
For example, as shown in FIG. 16, the web structure 18 is
predominantly flat in form. The web structure may act as a both a
torsional flexure (occurring predominantly across the webs width)
for the thicker or more rigid bosses/platform sections, as well as
a linear flexure along its length. Additionally, depending on the
characteristics of the materials used, the web may stretch or
elongate in length, allowing another form of displacement.
Alternatively, the web can be formed as shown in FIG. 14. In this
embodiment, the web structure 18 is formed as a V, or an inverted
V. The web structure 18 may exhibit the preceding characteristics
as well as act as a living hinge allowing the angle formed by the
faces of the V to change. This would result in a different set of
degrees of freedom of one boss/platform section relative to
another.
FIG. 13 shows a configuration predominantly the same as FIG. 14. Of
note is the fact that the web structures may also take the form of
a W or inverted W, which could further increase flexibility. Also
of note is the fact that the web structures can be varied, with
V-shaped web structures used in some areas or directions and
W-shaped web structures used in other areas or directions. FIG. 13
shows W-shaped web structures running vertically and V-shaped web
structures running horizontally in the example section. In addition
to V-shaped and W-shaped webs structures, it should be understood
that other forms are also envisioned, and so a number of varied
geometric possibilities exist for the web geometry as well as the
bosses/platforms and holes.
All of the aforementioned forms of webs, and other contemplated
designs, all may share common types of flexure of varying degrees.
It should be noted that the terms "thinner" and "thicker" sections
are interchangeable with the terms "sections having greater" or
"sections having less" flexibility relative to each other.
Cross-sectional area or thickness is but one way of varying the
relative rigidity of the webs vs. the bosses or platforms. Another
way is to provide the boss structures or platforms with rigidizing
returns, ribs or walls, as shown in FIGS. 20 and 21, so that
structurally the bosses or platforms are stiffer than the joining
webs.
Additionally, as stated earlier, the materials selected could play
an important role in the performance of the geometry. For example,
if the material selected is an elastomeric material, such as a
urethane, the webs 18 could each stretch or elongate a small amount
resulting in or allowing deflection or displacement of the thicker
or more rigid bosses/platform sections 20. Another flexible
material that may be suitable is Hytrel.RTM. polyester elastomer by
Dupont. Other suitable materials are polypropylene (e.g.,
unfilled), PBT, etc. Since each area or boss structure with
connecting web structures responds individually, the entire seating
surface may emulate a soft cushioning effect to the occupant.
As also mentioned earlier, it is possible through advanced molding
techniques or fabrication, to use more than one type of molded
material in a finished product. One such technique is to mold a
part in one material in one mold and then place the part into
another mold that has additional cavity area, and then fill that
mold with another type of material. So it may be advantageous to
for example to mold all the webs and connective areas in one
material in one mold, and then to transfer the part to another mold
to form all the thicker or more rigid bosses/platform sections and
other features in another material.
In one embodiment, openings 22 otherwise referred to as holes or
areas lacking material, are formed in and/or between the web
structures so as to allow airflow through the seating structure and
thereby reduce the amount of heat build up on the seating surface.
These holes 22, or areas with no material, further serve to allow
the desired movement of the webs and the thicker sections. As
shown, the holes are octagons, but any shape found suitable could
be used, including circular holes and X-shaped holes and V-shaped
holes (when viewing the holes or openings in a direction
substantially perpendicular to the support surface of the seating
structure). In one embodiment, it is desirable to maintain the
smallest dimension of the hole or opening less than 8 mm, such that
an 8 mm probe cannot be passed therethrough.
Referring to FIG. 17, a single structural relationship is depicted,
showing another form the web structure may assume. The difference
of this form of web structure can be appreciated by referring to
FIGS. 19, 20, and 21. Rather than the bosses/platforms 20 being
thicker in cross-sectional than the web connecting members 18, the
bosses/platforms are provided with structural returns or
reinforcing ribs 114. In this way, the bosses/platforms will have a
greater structural rigidity relative to their interconnecting web
members. FIG. 20 which is a sectional view taken along cutting line
20-20 of FIG. 19 and FIG. 21 which is a sectional view taken along
cutting line 21-21 of FIG. 19, show that the bosses/platforms 20
have reinforcing returns 114 that make the bosses/platforms more
rigid than the connecting web structure. As shown the return wall
114 on the bosses/platforms forms a ring. This is not a necessity
though, the returns could be as simple as a single rib or as
complex or as many returns as are needed.
One aspect of this invention is the ability of the
designer/manufacturer to precisely control and alter all aspects of
the deflection of the seating surface from area to area simply and
controllably. In contrast, when a designer/manufacturer specifies a
foam density (firmness/softness) for a cushion, the entire cushion
may be compromised by that unifying density. That is not the case
with this invention though.
Biomapping is datum created through the comparison of body contours
of a given population, or the datum created through the comparison
of contact forces exerted between a seating surface and the
occupant. Although exercises in generating data have been ongoing
for several years, the designer is still limited to selecting
generic contours, then hoping that the foam would resolve the final
fitting issues. With the present invention, however, it is possible
to effectively use the data generated by biomapping to precisely
control of the geometry (web-connectors, bosses/platforms, and
openings) and thus the engineering properties area by area over the
entire seating surface, so that each sector-area is functionally
optimized.
So it should be appreciated that by varying the size and shape of
the holes, the location of holes, the types of webs and their
relative thickness, geometry and size, contour and relative
thickness of the boss structures or their geometry, a designer can
custom design each area of a seating surface to perform as desired.
FIG. 3 shows how the seating surface could be divided into zones;
one such zone is indicated by area 24. This could be the zone of
greatest flexibility. It should also be appreciated the advantage
this offers the designer when he/she is trying to economically
manufacture an item from a material such as plastic, as well as the
increased comfort that the user will experience.
Referring to FIGS. 35-37, another embodiment of a support structure
is shown as having a plurality of boss structures 20 arranged in a
grid-like pattern of rows 116 and columns 118 of boss structures. A
plurality of web structures 18 connects adjacent boss structures
20. Preferably, the boss structures have a circular cross-section
when viewed from a direction substantially perpendicular to the
support surface defined by the plurality of boss structures.
However, the boss structures can have any desired shape. In one
embodiment, the width of the web structures varies, with it being
the greatest at the middle thereof, where the hinge apex is
located. This structure provides an X-shaped opening 22 between
adjacent web structures connected to adjacent boss structures
20.
Referring to FIGS. 30-34, other embodiments of support structures
are shown with the boss structures 20 and web structures 18
arranged in different patterns. In various embodiments, shown in
FIGS. 30 and 33, a back support includes a plurality of laterally
(horizontally) elongated boss structures 120, a plurality of
longitudinally (vertically) elongated boss structures 122, and a
plurality of larger rectangular (shown as substantially square)
boss structures 124. In one embodiment, the larger boss structures
124 have a width and height approximately equal to the respective
lengths of the horizontally and vertically oriented boss structures
120, 122. The various boss structures 120, 122, 124 can be arranged
in various patterns and configurations, as shown for example in
FIGS. 30 and 33. It should be understood that the term
"substantially rectangular" includes four-sided shapes, even though
one or more sides (ends) or corners thereof may be rounded, such
that they have a generally obround shape or capsule shape. The boss
structures may also be tetragonal, trapezoidal or formed as
parallelograms as shown for example in FIGS. 33 and 34. As shown in
FIGS. 30 and 33, larger boss structures 124 are positioned in the
upper regions of the back support adjacent the shoulders of the
user. The embodiment of FIG. 30 further includes larger boss
structures 124 vertically positioned along the middle of the back
support to support the spine of the user. The various size and
orientations of the boss structures and openings provides various
degrees of flex and support in desired locations. For example, the
larger boss structures provide a greater surface area in contact
with the user and assist in distributing the loads of the user. In
addition, the orientation can indicate a direction of travel of the
user relative to the seating surface, for example by providing
longitudinally (or laterally) elongated boss structures on the
seat.
As shown in FIGS. 30, 32 and 33, web structures 126, 128, 130
connect adjacent boss structures. When the boss structures are
offset in the horizontal or vertical direction, the web structures
128, or a portion thereof (e.g. one or both sides), have a diagonal
orientation. In one juncture, the web structure 130 has a linear
diagonal side and a "peaked" side with two edges forming an angle
or apex. Other web structures 126 are formed as described above,
with a varying width, such that the openings formed between the web
structures are either substantially X-shaped (small or large) or
V-shaped. Preferably, the width is greater in the middle of the web
structure of the hinge apex. The openings are not shown in FIG. 33,
but would be formed between the respective web structures and boss
structures as shown in FIG. 30 and 32.
Referring to FIGS. 31 and 34, a seat support also includes a
plurality of laterally elongated boss structures 120, a plurality
of longitudinally elongated boss structures 122, and a plurality of
larger rectangular (shown as substantially square) boss structures
124. In one embodiment, the larger boss structures 124 have a width
and height approximately equal to the respective lengths of the
laterally and longitudinally oriented boss structures. The various
boss structures can be arranged in various patterns and
configurations, as shown for example in FIGS. 31 and 34. For
example, as shown in both embodiments, larger boss structures are
positioned in the rear portion of the seat adjacent the buttock of
the user, while the front portion is configured with smaller
longitudinally extending boss structures (FIG. 34) or smaller
laterally extending boss structures (FIG. 31).
As shown in FIGS. 31 and 34, web structures 126, 128, 130 connect
adjacent boss structures 120, 122, 124. When the boss structures
are offset in the horizontal or vertical direction, the web
structures 128, 130, or a portion thereof, again have a diagonal
orientation. Other web structures are formed as described above,
with a varying width, such that the openings formed between the web
structures are either substantially X-shaped (small or large) or
V-shaped. The openings are not shown in FIG. 34, but would be
formed between the respective web structures and boss structures as
shown in FIG. 31.
As shown in FIGS. 33 and 34, the boss structures 122 can be
arranged in a generally curved array 132 or row in the lateral
direction. For example, as shown in FIG. 34, the boss structures
can be angled outwardly from the back to the front of the boss
structure, and gradually straightened as one moves along the array
from the outside in. In the rear portion of the seat as shown in
FIG. 34, or at the top of the back as shown in FIG. 33, the length
of the boss structures 122 within a particular row or array can be
varied to provide the curved configuration, or the boss structures
can be longitudinally offset. Of course, it should be understood
that arrays 134 or columns of boss structures extending in the
longitudinal direction can also be curved, as shown in FIGS. 33 and
34, to form or follow a contour, for example the contour of the
outer peripheral frame. The curvature can be achieved by
orientation (e.g., angling of the boss structures), by altering the
relative width of the boss structures within the columns, or by
adjusting the lateral offset of the boss structures relative to
each other.
Referring to FIGS. 7-9, one embodiment of a seat frame 2 and back
frame 4 are shown. The frames 2, 4 are preferably, substantially
more rigid than the seat and back seating surfaces or structure
formed by the web and boss structures. The frames provide a support
structure for the seating surface, and as a means to connect the
seating surface to the rest of the chair. In one contemplated
embodiment the seating surface is carried within the seating frame
by way of mounting grooves 10 and 12.
It should be appreciated that the seating surface and the frame
could be formed or manufactured as a single unit, as shown in FIGS.
30-31. However, some advantages may be realized if they are
separate. For example, the frame and seating surface can be made of
different materials. In this way, each of the materials selected
for their respective part may be optimized functionally. Another
advantage is that the way in which the two members, the seating
surface and its frame, are attached may be varied. Techniques of
manufacture and assembly could be used which would allow movement
relative to one another. This would give yet more degrees of
movement and cushioning to the occupant.
An example of an attachment means is a rubber mount that may take
the form of a series of intermediate mounting pads, which occur
between the seating surface and its frame. Similarly, the rubber or
resilient material could take the form of a gasket occurring
between the seat surface and frame. Another way that such movement
could be achieved is to produce a groove integral to the seating
surface that would follow the same path as the mounting groove.
Such a groove could be pleated like the web found in FIG. 14, and
thus would allow a degree of lateral movement.
Another method would be to have the seating surface snap into place
using tabs and slots that had enough free-play relative to each
other to yield desirable results. Either the seating surface or the
frame could have the slots and the other the tab members.
Yet another method would be to configure the two elements so that
one or the other had standing legs formed predominantly
perpendicular to the other element. In this way, when the two are
assembled, and allowed to shift relative to each other, the legs
flex. This, like the rubber or resilient mounts would allow biased
relative movement, which would not feel loose. These tabs or the
functionality of them could be combined with the snap tabs, as a
matter of fact; any of the methods could be successfully
combined.
Additionally, any of these attachment techniques could occur using
mounting grooves such as 10 and 12, or could surface mount directly
on the surface of the seat/back frames. It is also contemplated
that the entire assembly (frames, resilient seating surface
inserts, and flex gasketing material) could be manufactured using
the advanced multi-material molding techniques (two-shot,
co-injection) previously mentioned. This would have the potentially
obvious advantages of increased economy, and ease of manufacture,
and increased structural integrity.
Another consideration when configuring the way in which the seating
surfaces interact with the seating frame is sizing. As previously
mentioned, it can be difficult for a designer to design a chair, or
other seating structure, with the proper contours appropriate for
the full range of the population. The resulting designs and
contours are necessarily compromises, and thus are not optimal for
any given individual. As also previously mentioned, in an effort to
overcome these limitations, manufacturers have produced "sized"
(i.e. small, medium and large) chairs that effectively narrow the
amount of contouring-compromise that the designer must normally
exercise.
One of skill in the art should understand that there are several
aspects to sizing. The first consideration is the overall sizing of
the surfaces as far as width, height etc. As far as comfort is
concerned, this is the least important aspect of seating surface
design. Appropriately sized seating surfaces can be formulated that
satisfy the extremes. Of more importance is the contouring that
occurs within whatever sized seating surface is chosen. Often, the
contouring varies greatly from a small individual, to a large one.
Additionally, some individuals who seemingly share the same body
types prefer differing contours, for example stronger/weaker lumbar
contours. Although the present invention addresses this need for
variable contouring through its innovative flexure structure,
further advantages in comfort can be realized if the initial
contours of the seating structure are in the proper range for the
occupant.
Through the unique method of construction disclosed herein, these
goals are all achievable. As previously outlined, the seating
surfaces can be attached to the seating frame by a variety of
methods. Therefore, the manufacturer can produce one basic chair
frame(s) and insert many different contoured seating surfaces.
Obviously, this has the advantage of eliminating the need of the
manufacturer having to tool three independent products instead of
one. In addition, because the seating surfaces are so easily
attached and detached from their frames, it is conducive to a
field-customization. In this way, wholesalers, and retailers could
stock frames, and then have a variety of seating surfaces in
various contours and colors. This would allow the retailer to
customize the product on the spot for the customer. Additionally,
the end user is not stuck with a chair that at some point in the
future may be the wrong size. The size/color scheme can be updated
at any point of the products life by simply obtaining a fresh set
of seating surfaces.
Thus, a new and improved method of chair seat and back pan
construction, which provides greater comfort through superior
surface adjustment for a variety of users, has been provided. Also
provided is a new and improved method of chair seat back pan
construction that provides greater airflow to contact areas of the
occupant's body. Also provided is a new and improved method of
chair seat back pan construction that is more efficient and
economical to produce.
Although the present invention has been described with reference to
preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that
changes may be made in form and detail without departing from the
spirit and scope of the invention. As such, it is intended that the
foregoing detailed description be regarded as illustrative rather
than limiting and that it is the appended claims, including all
equivalents thereof, which are intended to define the scope of the
invention.
* * * * *